North East Lincolnshire Council’s Trading Standards team are asking people to report doorstep callers offering to carry out work on homes, gardens and business premises.
Suspected rogue traders have been seen in the area and are thought to be offering work related to tree pruning and other garden works.
Reports from nearby areas relate to roof repairs and driveway works, with traders offering to use up leftover materials from a job they are working on up the road.
People are asked to remain vigilant and report any sightings of suspected rogue traders in the area.
To share information online with Trading Standards about this or any other matter in confidence, go to www.nelincs.gov.uk/scams or you can discuss the matter by calling Citizens Advice on 03454 040506.
Rogue traders target the vulnerable and the elderly. They overcharge for doing very little work and in most cases leave the victim having to find a reputable trader to put right what they’ve done.
After carrying out work such as cutting back trees, they charge to take the waste away and then dump it illegally.
Rogue traders defraud victims through pressure selling. Often offering substantial reductions to start the work there and then, breaching the victim’s legal rights of a cooling off period. They then escalate the price once work has started.
Councillor Ron Shepherd, portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities, said:
“Never agree to having work done when you’re cold called.
“If a job needs doing, get at least three quotes from different tradespeople and take your time to make an informed decision.
“Always use a reputable company that people you know and trust have recommended.
“As good neighbours, we should always be on the look-out for each other and if someone starts work on your vulnerable neighbour’s home, don’t hesitate to report them to the council.”
Traders must give you a 14-day cooling off period and a written contract if they call at your home or business premise and offer to carry out work where the cost exceeds £42. This is a legal requirement and it is an offence if they don’t.
If you are approached by any cold caller and feel threatened or intimidated in any way, secure your premises, close and lock your door and telephone the police on 999.
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